Milwaukee BOLT REDLITHIUM USB Headlamp

When working in environments where hard hats are mandatory, having a reliable and effective headlamp can make a significant difference. Enter Milwaukee's BOLT REDLITHIUM USB Headlamp, model 2118-21. This headlamp is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats. After using it extensively, I can confidently say it has its strengths and a few notable drawbacks.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the BOLT headlamp is its robust construction. The headlamp is made from polycarbonate, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of tough job sites. The low-profile design is a thoughtful touch, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with face shields or other accessories. The headlamp attaches securely to the hard hat using a cam lock system, which I found to be very stable. However, it's essential to note that this headlamp is only compatible with Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats, limiting its use if you already own a different brand.

Lighting Performance

The BOLT headlamp offers four different lighting modes: High (600 lumens), Medium (400 lumens), Low (150 lumens), and Eco (25 lumens). The high mode provides ample illumination for the most demanding tasks, lasting up to 4 hours, while the medium and low settings extend the battery life to 8 and 14 hours, respectively. The Eco mode, although long-lasting at 32 hours, offers only 25 lumens, which I found insufficient for any meaningful work. The 70° pivoting light head allows you to direct the light exactly where needed, a feature that proved invaluable in tight, dark spaces.

Battery and Charging

One of the standout features of this headlamp is the rechargeable 3.0AH USB battery. The battery life is impressive, especially when compared to other rechargeable headlamps I’ve used. Charging is quick; it reaches 50% in under 30 minutes, 80% in under an hour, and a full charge takes about 2 hours. The battery pack is mounted at the back of the hard hat, which helps balance the weight. However, this placement can make the headlamp feel a bit heavy, especially during extended use. The USB-C charging port is a welcome addition, as it is becoming the standard for many devices. The inclusion of a 2FT heavy-duty USB-C charging cord is a nice touch.

Usability

Using the headlamp is straightforward. It has separate buttons for power and mode selection, making it easy to switch between different brightness levels without cycling through all the modes. The battery charge status indicator is a helpful feature, allowing you to monitor the battery life at a glance. I appreciated the flexible wire routing design, which ensures full functionality of all BOLT accessories without any hindrance.

Comfort and Ergonomics

While the headlamp fits perfectly on Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats, I did find it a bit heavy. The weight distribution is generally good, with the battery at the back balancing the light at the front. However, after wearing it for several hours, I did experience some neck strain. This might be a concern for those who need to wear the headlamp for extended periods.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Durability: The polycarbonate build ensures the headlamp can withstand tough environments.
- Battery Life: The rechargeable 3.0AH battery offers impressive run times across different brightness levels.
- Lighting Modes: Four different lighting modes cater to various needs, with the high mode being particularly bright.
- Quick Charging: The USB-C fast charging feature is convenient, reducing downtime.
- Secure Attachment: The cam lock system ensures the headlamp stays firmly attached to the hard hat.

Cons:
- Compatibility: The headlamp is only compatible with Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats, limiting its versatility.
- Weight: The headlamp can feel heavy, especially during prolonged use, causing some neck strain.
- Eco Mode: The lowest brightness setting is not very practical for most tasks.
- Cord Length: The cord length can be an issue, particularly if not routed correctly, which could limit movement.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee BOLT REDLITHIUM USB Headlamp is a high-quality, durable tool that offers excellent lighting performance and impressive battery life. Its design is well-thought-out, and it integrates seamlessly with Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats. However, its compatibility limitations and weight might be a concern for some users.

Would I recommend this headlamp? If you already use Milwaukee's BOLT hard hats and need a reliable, bright, and long-lasting headlamp, then absolutely. The benefits of quick charging, multiple lighting modes, and a secure attachment system outweigh the drawbacks. However, if you use a different brand of hard hat or are sensitive to the weight of headlamps, you might want to consider other options.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee BOLT REDLITHIUM USB Headlamp is a solid choice for professionals who need dependable lighting in challenging conditions, provided they use the compatible hard hat. Its performance and durability make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.